Our Hearts "Ignite" for Longtime Donors Mike and Judy Mason

Whether it’s providing stable and secure housing, helping youth develop financial literacy and job readiness skills, or building a community of warm and caring mentors and peers for our young people, we couldn’t offer our life-changing services without the caring support of donors like Mike and Judy Mason.

Mike and Judy began donating to Ignite over 20 years ago after they met Board Member Mary Lou Mulvihill-Skalkos through a mutual friend. Mary Lou, in turn, introduced them to Ignite, which, at that time, was called Teen Living Programs or “TLP”. They have been steadfast and generous supporters ever since, volunteering at Belfort House, attending galas, and donating to the agency. They have made a difference in the lives of hundreds of youth experiencing homelessness.

Mike and Judy now live in Sarasota, Florida but before retiring they lived in the Chicago suburb of Clarendon Hills where they raised their two children, Brian and Amanda. Mike worked at the CME Group as a trader. They are hands-on, dedicated grandparents to three beautiful grandchildren, Charlie (3.5 years), Mabel (1.5 years old), and Eleanor (7 years old), who they have sorely missed visiting on a regular basis during the COVID-19 pandemic.

When talking about why he and Judy give to Ignite, Mike recalls a story about visiting Belfort House when it first opened its doors. He was there with the youth stuffing envelopes and had a chance to talk with and listen to the youth interact. It was then that he really understood that “these were just kids who didn’t catch a break. They were talking about their phones, their music, and school, just like any other kids. They didn’t ask to be where they are; they were just trying to figure the world out.  We’ve been blessed and done well and it’s one of our responsibilities to find good places to put our money back into the world.”

Mike explained that “they always looked for places where their money gets to the bottom line and will do the most good” and “[Ignite] provides a core for these kids.” Mike and Judy have been able to double the impact of their giving to Ignite through CME Group’s Matching Gift Program and they have encouraged others to give to Ignite by serving as a “match” donation during various fundraising campaigns.

We want to say thank you to Mike and Judy for standing with youth on their journey to a home and a future with promise. We are so grateful for their dedication to Ignite and for their kind hearts and generous spirits. Their philanthropy has made the world a better place!